CACB grants and issues Certification to applicants who meet the Education Standard and maintains a National Register of those certified and confidential records of all pertinent documentation for all applicants.

The CES assesses academic qualifications against the following six subject areas:

1. General education and electives2.History of architecture and human behaviour3. Environment4. Design and graphic communications5.Technical systems6.Knowledge and the profession

CANADIAN EDUCATION STANDARD

The Canadian Education Standard consist of standards and procedures for the assessment of both professional degrees accredited by the CACB, and professional degrees or diplomas not accredited by the CACB. These standards and procedures have been chosen to assure that the assessments are equitable in each case, while accommodating the varied backgrounds and circumstances of the applicants. They are endorsed by all of the 11 Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities (CALA).

You were, prior to the Certification Process, registered prior to July 1, 1976 by a provincial association, or by the Ordre des architectes du Québec prior to 1992, or your education was certified by the Universities Coordinating Council in Alberta prior to 1992, and are thus accepted as having an equivalent education to satisfy the Canadian Education Standard.

Eligibility

Only graduates of professional degrees in architecture, which may be a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) or a Master of Architecture (M. Arch) degree, are eligible to apply for CACB Certification.

The main types of professional degrees that are eligible for CACB certification are those consisting of:

⦁ a minimum of five years of post-secondary study culminating in a Master of Architecture degree, which follows a pre-professional bachelor’s degree, except in Quebec, where the minimum is four years of professional studies following two years of CEGEP;

⦁ a minimum of six years of post-secondary study culminating in a Master of Architecture degree, which follows a bachelor’s degree in any discipline and includes a minimum of three years of professional studies in architecture; or

⦁ a minimum of five years of post-secondary study culminating in a Bachelor of Architecture degree.

Certain variations from the types of degrees listed above may be considered as long as candidates submit proof that their degree meets the requirement for licensure in the country where the degree was granted.

Contact the Certification Coordinator at info@cacb.ca if you hold an Architecture degree.

DEGREE/DIPLOMA NOT ACCREDITED BY CACB

You qualify for this mode of certification if you:

– Graduated from a professional degree in architecture from a foreign country (Except USA) or from one of the Canberra Accord Signatories since January 1, 2010.

– Graduated from one of the Canadian Schools of Architecture prior to the implementation of the CACB Accreditation System in 1991, which consist of:

University of British Columbia

University of Calgary

Carleton University

Technical University of Nova Scotia (TUNS)-Currently, Dalhousie University

Université Laval

University of Manitoba

McGill University

Université de Montréal

University of Toronto

University of Waterloo

– Received a Diploma from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Syllabus of Studies Program

ONLINE APPLICATION

The required time to complete your application depends on the mode of certification that applies to you and is expected to take between 2 and 5 hours.

It is recommended to have handy the following information/documents:

Name of the program/diploma;

Years of studies and graduation;

Transcript of your professional degree in architecture;

Official course calendar/ syllabus from the university including the description of the courses you have completed;

Course names and course numbers or codes;

Length of the academic semester in terms of weeks.

All document hard copies must be mailed to the CACB office.

Scanned and emailed documents are not accepted.

The submission must include the following supporting documents:

Official transcript of the record of completed courses or certified true copy thereof;

Certified true copy of the official translation of the transcripts if the original documents are not in English or in French;

Certified true copy of all degrees;

Certified true copy of the official translation of degrees if the original documents are not in English or in French;

Official university calendar describing the professional program in architecture or equivalent documentation (course syllabus). The university calendar must be corresponding to the years of your studies (see the note below about finding the Course Calendar);

Certified true copy of the official translation of the university calendar if the original document is not in English or in French(translation of the program in architecture only);

List of the academic design projects completed throughout the program in architecture, as well as a brief description of each project in a maximum of 4 pages;

Portfolio of academic design is optional. While submitting a portfolio is not mandatory, it is recommended to submit as it may strengthen an application.

Submission of Portfolio of academic design work requirements:

Portfolio of school work should be made of copies of individual work produced within design studio of the Architectural program. It must include at least the final design project and/or two other projects produced in the last two years of the program. The required dimensions and format are as follows:

Dimensions of submissions: 8½ X 11″ to 11″ X 17″ folded into 8½ X 11″

Format: Mechanical binding and soft covers; and

Payment of the Assessment Fee

We might already have your Course Calendar in our database!

If you graduated from a professional degree in architecture from a foreign country (Except USA) or from one of the Canberra Accord Signatories since January 1, 2010, you might be interested in finding out if we currently have in our database your Course Calendar, which is part of the submission, to avoid extra costs of translation and true copy certification.

If your School Course Calendar/Syllabus:

is available for the years you studied (appears on the drop-down menu), you will not be required to submit a certified copy as part of your application, but you should be ready to provide any additional information/clarifications if needed.

is no available (does not appear on the drop-down menu or does not apply to the same years of your architecture studies), you will be required to submit the applicable official university calendar/syllabus as part of the documents package within your application.

PRINT APPLICATION

Why do I need CACB Academic Certification?

Academic Certification is the first mandatory required step towards registration/licensure which consists of Academic Certification (Education), Internship (Experience) and Examination.

You will need your Academic Certification and your Certification Number in order to register in the Internship in Architecture Program (IAP) within the Jurisdiction you would like to practice as a licensed Architec.

Where do I need to register for Internship in Architecture Program and Exam?

The Internship and the Exam are administered by the Provincial/Territorial Associations of Architecture. Contact the Architects Association of the jurisdiction where you would like to practice as a licensed Architect for more detailed Information about eligibility and process.

How long does the assessment process take?

Based on first come first serve approach, the processing time of a complete application depends on your mode of certification.

Up to 2 weeks if you graduated from anaccredited degree in architecture accredited by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) or the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)-USA.

a foreign country (Except USA) or from one of the Canberra Accord Signatories since January 1, 2010.

one of the Canadian schools of architecture prior to the implementation of the CACB Accreditation System in 1991; and

the RAIC Syllabus of Studies Program.

It should e noted however, that the timeline mentioned above may vary depending on the number of applications received or for technical reasons.

What types of degrees are eligible for Academic Certification?

Bachelor of Architecture Program ‑ requiring a minimum of five years of study; or

Master of Architecture Program ‑ requiring a minimum of three years of study following an unrelated bachelor’s degree, or two years following a four year related pre-professional degree; and does not preclude variations approved by CACB.

I am a foreign graduate in architecture, what do I need to do before I apply?

What is a Course Calendar?

The Course Calendar or the syllabus is the official university document that describes the professional program in architecture you graduated with. You must provide within your application the Course Calendar that reflects the years of your studies and must have the description of each individual course of your program, the number of hours of lectures and the number of hours of studio spent on each course; the number of terms in an academic year; and the number of weeks of studies per term.

The Course calendar is one if the key pieces n the submission as it allows assessing its content against the Canadian Education Stands (CES) Requirements in terms of Credits hours and area of studies.

You can always verify before you submit the Course Calendar, if we do have a copy in our database, from our previous assessments from candidates from same institutions, program, and year.

What is an official transcript? How do I obtain one?

A transcript is a list of courses a student has completed, indicating grades and credits awarded.

An official transcript is issued by the Office of the Registrar. Student copies or electronic transcripts are not accepted by CACB. Transcripts may be sent to CACB by the applicant or directly from the university in a sealed envelope that is signed or stamped across the back flap by the appropriate official at the institution.

What is a certified true copy?

A certified copy is a photocopy of the original document that has been signed and sealed by a lawyer, a notary or a commissioner of oath.

Can I submit my application in any language?

Your application must be submitted in one of the two official languages (English or French). Otherwise, you will need to provide in addition to the original documents, their certified translation to English or French.

What is a certified translator?

A certified translator creates a legal record. Certified translators attest to the accuracy of a translation and place a seal on each page of the translation. The certified translator must be registered and officially authorized to do translations. This service may be obtained in Canada or in the country of origin.

A translation done by the applicant is only acceptable if it is signed and stamped by a certified translator.

Should I include transcripts of my entire educational background with my request for assessment?

CACB evaluates credentials earned through formal academic training only. Applicants should NOT submit documentation from short-term professional development courses or other non-formal, non-academic training. Such documents will not be evaluated or reflected in the CACB evaluation report.

If the first professional degree is a Master degree, undergraduate transcripts must also be submitted.

Although the evaluation is of the first professional degree, transcripts from post-professional degrees may be included. If hours are missing in any subject areas based on the first professional degree, those from the post-professional degree may be considered to fulfill requirements in that particular area.

Applicants should not add courses taken at the secondary or pre-university/college level.

I took some courses at an institution from which I did not receive a degree. Should I include those courses on my application?

Yes, your application may be supported by other university courses to fulfil some of the requirements of the CES. Transcripts and official course descriptions must be included.

I graduated 15 years ago. Will my professional experience count towards the assessment? Should I send references and/or a professional portfolio?

The response is no, unfortunately.

We cannot translate work experience into an equivalent to education and credit hours.

Academic Certification is about assessing your academic credentials to ensure they comply with the academic requirements of the Canadian Education Standard (CES) in terms of course content and duration, number total of credits, and area of studies. Which cannot be applied to a work experience gained after graduation?

Should I send my application in a single package?

While we understand that gathering supporting documents require sometimes multiples providers/sources, we strongly encourage you to submit your application in a single package. It is very important to provide your name and file number in all your correspondences with us (mail, email, etc.).

The assessment of your application starts only when all required documents and payment are received.

How much time I have to complete my submission?

CACB will hold on to an incomplete application for a maximum of 90 days. After 90 days, the application and payment will be returned to the applicant – a 15% administration fee will be deducted.

Will my documents be returned to me after the evaluation?

No. All documents submitted by applicants become the property of CACB. Originals should be kept by the applicants. Please send certified copies only.

What is the Canadian Education Standard (CES)?

The Canadian Education Standard consists of standards and procedures that have been chosen to assure that the assessments are equitable, while accommodating the varied backgrounds and circumstances of the applicants. The CES is endorsed by all the Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities (CALA). CACB degree equivalent requires 160 semester hours of academic credit grouped into six subject areas.

On what criteria of the Canadian Education Standards is equivalency based?

Equivalency is determined on the basis of the length, structure and content of the course being evaluated. Based on these criteria, the evaluators assign the applicant’s academic work to the subject areas in accordance with semester hour equivalents.

What is a Semester Hour (SH) of credit according to Canadian Education Standards (CES)?

A semester hour of credit is equivalent to 1 hour of CACB approved lecture time or 2 hours of CACB approved laboratory/studio instruction time per week for the duration of the semester or term. For programs which operate on a quarterly system, 1.5 quarter hours are equivalent to 1 semester hour.

What are electives? What types of courses are considered acceptable as electives?

Some degree programs contain a certain amount of elective credit hours, which means those programs allow students to enjoy some flexibility, outside the program, in a few areas and take classes that interest them. The Canadian Education Standard requires a total of 160 semester credits including a minimum of 136 semester hours of credit in five subject areas. The additional 24 semester hours of credit may be taken in any one or more of the five subject areas and/or acceptable elective subjects. Courses taken at the university level not related directly to architecture are acceptable toward the elective requirements.

I changed my name since I obtained my University degree. What name should I use to apply?

You must use your current legal name and provide with your application a legal proof of change of name. Otherwise we will issue the certificate with the name used on the transcript attached to your application.

You must provide with your current legal name along with a certified true copy of a legal proof of name change document, i.e., legal name change certificate, marriage certificate, divorce certificate, etc, with your submission. These documents must be in French or English or accompanied by an official translation.

What are the possible outcomes of an application?

Certification Decisions are rendered on behalf of the CACB by the CACB Assessment Committee. Applicants have the right to request a reassessment of their application or appeal the decision.

There are three possible outcomes:

Full certification: Full compliance with the Canadian Education Standard (CES) Requirements. Certificate within Certification Number is issued for registration within the Internship in Architecture Program.

Provisional Certification: Partial Compliance with the CES. The applicant’s academic qualifications are deficient in particular subject areas of the CES and he/she is required to further his/her studies to fulfil the gaps in the identified subject area by completing courses upon approval by the CACB.

Provisional Certification Number is issued to allow registration within the Internship in Architecture Program while completing the courses within a delay of maximum of 18 months.

Applicant is denied Certification: The applicant’s academic qualifications do not fulfill the minimum requirements to be evaluated by the assessment committee and required for registration/licensure requirements in Canada.

How will I be notified about the results of the assessment?

You will receive the result of your assessment by mail.

Make sure we have the right email address in your file.

What is the delay of Provisional Certification and Further Studies?

Provisional Certification is an accommodation that allows for registration in the Internship in Architecture Program for a limited time, before achieving full Certification. Rather than waiting until completion of the missing courses, applicants are given the opportunity to start the Internship while they are completing them. The Provisional Certification (Status) is limited to a maximum delay of 18 months. Failing to satisfy the requirements in this period of time, CACB will lapse the Provisional Certification Number and Status and will advise the Association of Architects to remove the applicant from its Internship in Architecture Program.

Under special and exceptional circumstances CACB may grant an extension to this delay upon a written and documented request.

Where can I register for the course/s if I have gap/s to fulfil in certain subject areas of the CES?

Before your register, you must request and obtain the approval of CACB for the course you would like to complete.

How do I obtain course approval to further my studies?

CACB does not recommend specific courses. After you have finished your search of cours/es for appropriate area of deficiency outlined on the letter you received from us, you must submit your selection for the Certification Coordinator’s approval by email to info@cacb.ca stating:

The deficiency you wish to address;

The name of the educational institution where you will take your coursework;

The course code/s and name; and

The Course Description and load along with the credits to be received.

Can I appeal the Assessment Committee’s decision?

Yes, you may appeal the Committee’s Decision within sixty days of receiving notice from CACB.

However, CACB offers a one-time only possibility to request reassessment of your file within 30 days of receiving the notice from CACB.

Your requests for the Committee to review its decision must be done in writing and must include additional documents to be considered.

How are reassessment and appeal processes conducted?

Reassessment is initiated at the simple request of the candidate.

There is no fee for a second review by the Assessment Committee. The candidate must submit within 30 days new evidence or documents, which can sustain and/or clarify the deficiency initially found by the Committee. Upon receipt of the new documentation, the file is brought to the next Assessment Committee Meeting. Candidates can request a maximum of two reassessments.

Appeal of the Assessment Committee decision must be notified within sixty days of receiving the decision notice. The candidate must submit, along with the appeal fee, a formal letter to the President of the CACB Board outlining the reason for the appeal, with supporting documentation where appropriate. Upon receipt of the official request for appeal, the file is brought for review to the next Board meeting (these are held twice a year).

The Board will review the appeal request and may:

Refuse the request for review;

Refer the case to the Appeal Committee; or

Defer judgment pending the receipt of additional information from the candidate.

What if I lose my certificate?

You can request a Letter of confirmation of your certification or a replacement of your certificate, please select and complete the appropriate form below (a nominal fee applies):

CACB grants and issues Certification to applicants who meet the Education Standard and maintains a National Register of those certified and confidential records of all pertinent documentation for all applicants.

The CES assesses academic qualifications against the following six subject areas:

1. General education and electives2.History of architecture and human behaviour3. Environment4. Design and graphic communications5.Technical systems6.Knowledge and the profession

CANADIAN EDUCATION STANDARD

The Canadian Education Standard consist of standards and procedures for the assessment of both professional degrees accredited by the CACB, and professional degrees or diplomas not accredited by the CACB. These standards and procedures have been chosen to assure that the assessments are equitable in each case, while accommodating the varied backgrounds and circumstances of the applicants. They are endorsed by all of the 11 Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities (CALA).

Eligibility

Eligibility

Only graduates of professional degrees in architecture, which may be a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) or a Master of Architecture (M. Arch) degree, are eligible to apply for CACB Certification.

The main types of professional degrees that are eligible for CACB certification are those consisting of:

⦁ a minimum of five years of post-secondary study culminating in a Master of Architecture degree, which follows a pre-professional bachelor’s degree, except in Quebec, where the minimum is four years of professional studies following two years of CEGEP;

⦁ a minimum of six years of post-secondary study culminating in a Master of Architecture degree, which follows a bachelor’s degree in any discipline and includes a minimum of three years of professional studies in architecture; or

⦁ a minimum of five years of post-secondary study culminating in a Bachelor of Architecture degree.

Certain variations from the types of degrees listed above may be considered as long as candidates submit proof that their degree meets the requirement for licensure in the country where the degree was granted.

Contact the Certification Coordinator at info@cacb.ca if you hold an Architecture degree.

Modes of Certification

MODES OF CERTIFICATION

There are five ways to satisfy the CES requirements for admission to provincial architectural associations in Canada. Select the circumstances that describe your situation to determine your mode:

You graduated from anaccredited degree in architecture accredited by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB)or the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)-USA.

You were, prior to the Certification Process, registered prior to July 1, 1976 by a provincial association, or by the Ordre des architectes du Québec prior to 1992, or your education was certified by the Universities Coordinating Council in Alberta prior to 1992, and are thus accepted as having an equivalent education to satisfy the Canadian Education Standard.

ONLINE APPLICATION

The required time to complete your application depends on the mode of certification that applies to you and is expected to take between 2 and 5 hours.

It is recommended to have handy the following information/documents:

Name of the program/diploma;

Years of studies and graduation;

Transcript of your professional degree in architecture;

Official course calendar/ syllabus from the university including the description of the courses you have completed;

Course names and course numbers or codes;

Length of the academic semester in terms of weeks.

All document hard copies must be mailed to the CACB office.

Scanned and emailed documents are not accepted.

The submission must include the following supporting documents:

Official transcript of the record of completed courses or certified true copy thereof;

Certified true copy of the official translation of the transcripts if the original documents are not in English or in French;

Certified true copy of all degrees;

Certified true copy of the official translation of degrees if the original documents are not in English or in French;

Official university calendar describing the professional program in architecture or equivalent documentation (course syllabus). The university calendar must be corresponding to the years of your studies (see the note below about finding the Course Calendar);

Certified true copy of the official translation of the university calendar if the original document is not in English or in French(translation of the program in architecture only);

List of the academic design projects completed throughout the program in architecture, as well as a brief description of each project in a maximum of 4 pages;

Portfolio of academic design is optional. While submitting a portfolio is not mandatory, it is recommended to submit as it may strengthen an application.

Submission of Portfolio of academic design work requirements:

Portfolio of school work should be made of copies of individual work produced within design studio of the Architectural program. It must include at least the final design project and/or two other projects produced in the last two years of the program. The required dimensions and format are as follows:

Dimensions of submissions: 8½ X 11″ to 11″ X 17″ folded into 8½ X 11″

Format: Mechanical binding and soft covers; and

Payment of the Assessment Fee

We might already have your Course Calendar in our database!

If you graduated from a professional degree in architecture from a foreign country (Except USA) or from one of the Canberra Accord Signatories since January 1, 2010, you might be interested in finding out if we currently have in our database your Course Calendar, which is part of the submission, to avoid extra costs of translation and true copy certification.

If your School Course Calendar/Syllabus:

is available for the years you studied (appears on the drop-down menu), you will not be required to submit a certified copy as part of your application, but you should be ready to provide any additional information/clarifications if needed.

is no available (does not appear on the drop-down menu or does not apply to the same years of your architecture studies), you will be required to submit the applicable official university calendar/syllabus as part of the documents package within your application.

PRINT APPLICATION

FAQ

Why do I need CACB Academic Certification?

Academic Certification is the first mandatory required step towards registration/licensure which consists of Academic Certification (Education), Internship (Experience) and Examination.

You will need your Academic Certification and your Certification Number in order to register in the Internship in Architecture Program (IAP) within the Jurisdiction you would like to practice as a licensed Architec.

Where do I need to register for Internship in Architecture Program and Exam?

The Internship and the Exam are administered by the Provincial/Territorial Associations of Architecture. Contact the Architects Association of the jurisdiction where you would like to practice as a licensed Architect for more detailed Information about eligibility and process.

How long does the assessment process take?

Based on first come first serve approach, the processing time of a complete application depends on your mode of certification.

Up to 2 weeks if you graduated from anaccredited degree in architecture accredited by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) or the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)-USA.

a foreign country (Except USA) or from one of the Canberra Accord Signatories since January 1, 2010.

one of the Canadian schools of architecture prior to the implementation of the CACB Accreditation System in 1991; and

the RAIC Syllabus of Studies Program.

It should e noted however, that the timeline mentioned above may vary depending on the number of applications received or for technical reasons.

What types of degrees are eligible for Academic Certification?

Bachelor of Architecture Program ‑ requiring a minimum of five years of study; or

Master of Architecture Program ‑ requiring a minimum of three years of study following an unrelated bachelor’s degree, or two years following a four year related pre-professional degree; and does not preclude variations approved by CACB.

I am a foreign graduate in architecture, what do I need to do before I apply?

What is a Course Calendar?

The Course Calendar or the syllabus is the official university document that describes the professional program in architecture you graduated with. You must provide within your application the Course Calendar that reflects the years of your studies and must have the description of each individual course of your program, the number of hours of lectures and the number of hours of studio spent on each course; the number of terms in an academic year; and the number of weeks of studies per term.

The Course calendar is one if the key pieces n the submission as it allows assessing its content against the Canadian Education Stands (CES) Requirements in terms of Credits hours and area of studies.

You can always verify before you submit the Course Calendar, if we do have a copy in our database, from our previous assessments from candidates from same institutions, program, and year.

What is an official transcript? How do I obtain one?

A transcript is a list of courses a student has completed, indicating grades and credits awarded.

An official transcript is issued by the Office of the Registrar. Student copies or electronic transcripts are not accepted by CACB. Transcripts may be sent to CACB by the applicant or directly from the university in a sealed envelope that is signed or stamped across the back flap by the appropriate official at the institution.

What is a certified true copy?

A certified copy is a photocopy of the original document that has been signed and sealed by a lawyer, a notary or a commissioner of oath.

Can I submit my application in any language?

Your application must be submitted in one of the two official languages (English or French). Otherwise, you will need to provide in addition to the original documents, their certified translation to English or French.

What is a certified translator?

A certified translator creates a legal record. Certified translators attest to the accuracy of a translation and place a seal on each page of the translation. The certified translator must be registered and officially authorized to do translations. This service may be obtained in Canada or in the country of origin.

A translation done by the applicant is only acceptable if it is signed and stamped by a certified translator.

Should I include transcripts of my entire educational background with my request for assessment?

CACB evaluates credentials earned through formal academic training only. Applicants should NOT submit documentation from short-term professional development courses or other non-formal, non-academic training. Such documents will not be evaluated or reflected in the CACB evaluation report.

If the first professional degree is a Master degree, undergraduate transcripts must also be submitted.

Although the evaluation is of the first professional degree, transcripts from post-professional degrees may be included. If hours are missing in any subject areas based on the first professional degree, those from the post-professional degree may be considered to fulfill requirements in that particular area.

Applicants should not add courses taken at the secondary or pre-university/college level.

I took some courses at an institution from which I did not receive a degree. Should I include those courses on my application?

Yes, your application may be supported by other university courses to fulfil some of the requirements of the CES. Transcripts and official course descriptions must be included.

I graduated 15 years ago. Will my professional experience count towards the assessment? Should I send references and/or a professional portfolio?

The response is no, unfortunately.

We cannot translate work experience into an equivalent to education and credit hours.

Academic Certification is about assessing your academic credentials to ensure they comply with the academic requirements of the Canadian Education Standard (CES) in terms of course content and duration, number total of credits, and area of studies. Which cannot be applied to a work experience gained after graduation?

Should I send my application in a single package?

While we understand that gathering supporting documents require sometimes multiples providers/sources, we strongly encourage you to submit your application in a single package. It is very important to provide your name and file number in all your correspondences with us (mail, email, etc.).

The assessment of your application starts only when all required documents and payment are received.

How much time I have to complete my submission?

CACB will hold on to an incomplete application for a maximum of 90 days. After 90 days, the application and payment will be returned to the applicant – a 15% administration fee will be deducted.

Will my documents be returned to me after the evaluation?

No. All documents submitted by applicants become the property of CACB. Originals should be kept by the applicants. Please send certified copies only.

What is the Canadian Education Standard (CES)?

The Canadian Education Standard consists of standards and procedures that have been chosen to assure that the assessments are equitable, while accommodating the varied backgrounds and circumstances of the applicants. The CES is endorsed by all the Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities (CALA). CACB degree equivalent requires 160 semester hours of academic credit grouped into six subject areas.

On what criteria of the Canadian Education Standards is equivalency based?

Equivalency is determined on the basis of the length, structure and content of the course being evaluated. Based on these criteria, the evaluators assign the applicant’s academic work to the subject areas in accordance with semester hour equivalents.

What is a Semester Hour (SH) of credit according to Canadian Education Standards (CES)?

A semester hour of credit is equivalent to 1 hour of CACB approved lecture time or 2 hours of CACB approved laboratory/studio instruction time per week for the duration of the semester or term. For programs which operate on a quarterly system, 1.5 quarter hours are equivalent to 1 semester hour.

What are electives? What types of courses are considered acceptable as electives?

Some degree programs contain a certain amount of elective credit hours, which means those programs allow students to enjoy some flexibility, outside the program, in a few areas and take classes that interest them. The Canadian Education Standard requires a total of 160 semester credits including a minimum of 136 semester hours of credit in five subject areas. The additional 24 semester hours of credit may be taken in any one or more of the five subject areas and/or acceptable elective subjects. Courses taken at the university level not related directly to architecture are acceptable toward the elective requirements.

I changed my name since I obtained my University degree. What name should I use to apply?

You must use your current legal name and provide with your application a legal proof of change of name. Otherwise we will issue the certificate with the name used on the transcript attached to your application.

You must provide with your current legal name along with a certified true copy of a legal proof of name change document, i.e., legal name change certificate, marriage certificate, divorce certificate, etc, with your submission. These documents must be in French or English or accompanied by an official translation.

What are the possible outcomes of an application?

Certification Decisions are rendered on behalf of the CACB by the CACB Assessment Committee. Applicants have the right to request a reassessment of their application or appeal the decision.

There are three possible outcomes:

Full certification: Full compliance with the Canadian Education Standard (CES) Requirements. Certificate within Certification Number is issued for registration within the Internship in Architecture Program.

Provisional Certification: Partial Compliance with the CES. The applicant’s academic qualifications are deficient in particular subject areas of the CES and he/she is required to further his/her studies to fulfil the gaps in the identified subject area by completing courses upon approval by the CACB.

Provisional Certification Number is issued to allow registration within the Internship in Architecture Program while completing the courses within a delay of maximum of 18 months.

Applicant is denied Certification: The applicant’s academic qualifications do not fulfill the minimum requirements to be evaluated by the assessment committee and required for registration/licensure requirements in Canada.

How will I be notified about the results of the assessment?

You will receive the result of your assessment by mail.

Make sure we have the right email address in your file.

What is the delay of Provisional Certification and Further Studies?

Provisional Certification is an accommodation that allows for registration in the Internship in Architecture Program for a limited time, before achieving full Certification. Rather than waiting until completion of the missing courses, applicants are given the opportunity to start the Internship while they are completing them. The Provisional Certification (Status) is limited to a maximum delay of 18 months. Failing to satisfy the requirements in this period of time, CACB will lapse the Provisional Certification Number and Status and will advise the Association of Architects to remove the applicant from its Internship in Architecture Program.

Under special and exceptional circumstances CACB may grant an extension to this delay upon a written and documented request.

Where can I register for the course/s if I have gap/s to fulfil in certain subject areas of the CES?

Before your register, you must request and obtain the approval of CACB for the course you would like to complete.

How do I obtain course approval to further my studies?

CACB does not recommend specific courses. After you have finished your search of cours/es for appropriate area of deficiency outlined on the letter you received from us, you must submit your selection for the Certification Coordinator’s approval by email to info@cacb.ca stating:

The deficiency you wish to address;

The name of the educational institution where you will take your coursework;

The course code/s and name; and

The Course Description and load along with the credits to be received.

Can I appeal the Assessment Committee’s decision?

Yes, you may appeal the Committee’s Decision within sixty days of receiving notice from CACB.

However, CACB offers a one-time only possibility to request reassessment of your file within 30 days of receiving the notice from CACB.

Your requests for the Committee to review its decision must be done in writing and must include additional documents to be considered.

How are reassessment and appeal processes conducted?

Reassessment is initiated at the simple request of the candidate.

There is no fee for a second review by the Assessment Committee. The candidate must submit within 30 days new evidence or documents, which can sustain and/or clarify the deficiency initially found by the Committee. Upon receipt of the new documentation, the file is brought to the next Assessment Committee Meeting. Candidates can request a maximum of two reassessments.

Appeal of the Assessment Committee decision must be notified within sixty days of receiving the decision notice. The candidate must submit, along with the appeal fee, a formal letter to the President of the CACB Board outlining the reason for the appeal, with supporting documentation where appropriate. Upon receipt of the official request for appeal, the file is brought for review to the next Board meeting (these are held twice a year).

The Board will review the appeal request and may:

Refuse the request for review;

Refer the case to the Appeal Committee; or

Defer judgment pending the receipt of additional information from the candidate.

What if I lose my certificate?

You can request a Letter of confirmation of your certification or a replacement of your certificate, please select and complete the appropriate form below (a nominal fee applies):

The Alberta Association of Architects (AAA or the Association) is a self-governing professional association charged under the Architects Act with the registration of Architects and the licensing of Licensed Interior Designers and with the regulation of the practice of Architecture in the Province of Alberta. The Association regulates the practice of architecture for the protection of the public and the administration of the Profession.

Architects’ Association of New Brunswick

The Architects’ Association of New Brunswick (AANB or the Association) is a corporate self-regulating body, established in 1933, for the purpose of advancing and maintaining the standards of architecture in New Brunswick, for governing and regulating those offering architectural services and for the safeguarding of members of the general public and the profession. The AANB Architects Act & By-Laws, which are a statute of the Government of New Brunswick, establishes the guidelines for membership in the Association and the practice of architecture in New Brunswick.

Architects Association of Prince Edward Island

The Architects Association of Prince Edward Island is a self-regulating organization governed by the Architects Act of PEI. AAPEI is formed to administer and regulate the practice of Architecture in the province of PEI.

Architects Licensing Board of Newfoundland and Labrador (ALBNL)

The Architects Licensing Board of Newfoundland and Labrador (ALBNL) is mandated by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to regulate the offering and the provision of architectural services for projects located in the province. This mandate includes setting standards for licensing, the granting of licenses to individuals who qualify, monitoring license holders for compliance with the Regulations, maintaining a disciplinary process, and prosecuting those firms and persons who do not comply with the Architects Act 2008. The Board is a sister organization with the Newfoundland and Labrador Architects Association (NLAA).

Architectural Institute of British Columbia

The Architectural Institute of British Columbia (AIBC) is an independent, professional self-regulatory body established in 1920 by provincial statute – the Architects Act. The AIBC is governed by a council of 10 elected architects, four persons appointed by the provincial government, and one appointee from within the faculty of the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture. The architectural profession has both exclusive right to title and exclusive rights of practice in British Columbia.

Ryerson University

Master of Architecture (MArch) – About the Program – Architects today operate in an increasingly complex and dynamic environment. In addition to possessing strong technical skills, the architectural profession requires strong, independent, critical thinkers, who nonetheless are comfortable acting in an increasingly collaborative industry. As issues around the nature environment increase in importance, architects must be willing and able to take on leadership roles within society. By focusing on a critical study of architectural practice, both in its contemporary forms and in its future potential, Ryerson’s program will provide students with the opportunities for intellectual growth needed to develop these leadership faculties. The program is a two-year, six-semester, studio-based course of study designed for students with a strong technical background in architecture. The Master’s Program in Architecture offers preparation for entry into the profession of architecture to students admitted with an undergraduate degree in architectural science (B. Arch. Sci.) or its equivalent. It is a professionally-oriented program with a strong research component. The intellectual development of the student is understood as key not only to his or her academic success, but also to his or her success as a professional operating in the increasingly demanding, research-intensive world of architectural practice in the twenty-first century. To this end, the program has been formed around the themes of critical practice; collaborative and future practice; and research practice.

The School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture is the only one of its kind in British Columbia. It contributes significantly to the dialogue, education, research and innovation within the architecture and landscape architecture professions and plays a positive role within both UBC and the wider community. Through its undergraduate, professional and research programs, the School aspires to produce outstanding graduates equipped to anticipate evolving realities within the realm of contemporary practice and to provide the necessary design, technical and intellectual leadership that will contribute to a built environment supportive of civil and sustainable patterns of living. The Architecture Program offers a dynamic milieu for engagement with the pressing issues confronting contemporary cities and regions. It does so in both its professional degree (MArch) and advanced studies (MASA) options. The professional program seeks to prepare and advance those wishing to participate critically in defining concerns and negotiating responses to the impediments and opportunities of our precipitous times. Vancouver, with its richly resourced landscape and complex cultural mix provides an instructive focus for these ambitions. This program endeavors to prepare students as informed stakeholders in the built environment via a cogent curriculum that affords both the requisite knowledge base and opportunities for direct experience in the local and global making of the world at large.

McGill University

The School of Architecture at McGill University was founded in 1896. Our mission is to educate professionals who will contribute to the socio-economic and cultural development of Quebec, Canada and the broader global community through responsible participation in the process of the design, construction and interpretation of the built environment. The School offers professional programs, including B.Sc. (Arch.) and M.Arch. (Professional), and post-professional research programs, including M.Arch. (Post-professional) and Ph.

Dalhousie University

The School of Architecture is located in downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, on the Atlantic coast of Canada. The school’s primary aim is to educate students who plan to become professional architects. It was established in 1961 and was part of the Technical University of Nova Scotia until 1997, when TUNS amalgamated with Dalhousie University to form a comprehensive university with 15,000 undergraduate and graduate students within a wide range of disciplines. The central activity at the School of Architecture is architectural design. Students examine historical and contemporary buildings in Canada and abroad, and respond through the design of new architectural projects. Architecture is a multi-disciplinary profession, with alliances to the fine arts, the humanities, and technologies. Many undergraduate disciplines provide an effective foundation for architectural studies. Conversely, architectural studies provide an excellent foundation for careers in various design-related fields.

Carleton University

Carleton emphasizes architecture as a practical art that brings together the physical realities of building within the cultural conditions of our complex society. In our teaching methods we emphasize discovery through making, discipline through craft, imagination through drawing and other media arts, conviction through writing, and advocacy through public presentations. The built environment has changed significantly in the past fifty years and continues to transform with ever-advancing electronic technologies. At Carleton we are committed not only to affirming and exploring architecture in its traditional sense, but to critically redefining it at the advent of the new millennium.

Saskatchewan Association of Architects

The mandate of the Saskatchewan Association of Architects is to ensure the protection of the public interest and to regulate and advance the profession of Architecture in the province of Saskatchewan. The Association was given authority to administer its own Act under provincial legislation which came into effect on July 31, 1912, was updated in 1996, and is known as An Act respecting The Saskatchewan Association of Architects (The Architects Act). The conduct of the Association’s members and the practice of Architecture are regulated under the terms of The Architects Act and the Bylaws of The Saskatchewan Association of Architects.

The Ontario Association of Architects is a self-regulating organization governed by the Architects Act, which is a statute of the Government of Ontario. The Association is dedicated to promoting and increasing the knowledge, skill and proficiency of its members, and administering the Architects Act, in order that the public interest may be served and protected.

Nova Scotia Association of Architects

The Nova Scotia Association of Architects is a professional organization formed to administer and direct the practice of architecture in the Province of Nova Scotia. This is achieved through keeping a register of architects licensed to practice, conducting regular administration and technical meetings, administering NCARB examinations for potential members, maintaining a disciplinary committee to receive and process complaints, and assisting various governmental bodies in draughting legislation as it might affect architects, their clients, or the public.

Northwest Territories Association of Architects

The NWT Architects Act came fully into effect in 2002. With the NWT Architects Act, the NWT Architectural Society, which had acted in the general interest of architects in practice in the NWT since 1986, was transformed into a fully self-regulating professional association.

University of Manitoba

As one of the five departments within the Faculty of Architecture, the Department of Architecture offers a program of studies directed towards a professional Master of Architecture degree. The curriculum focuses on transforming the lessons of history, technology, culture, climate, regional and social aspirations into a program for architecture. Students have freedom to experiment with ideas and methods as they develop their own personal critical approaches to architectural design. The academic freedom, one of the program’s highlights is visible in work done within the school as well as in the wide range of courses students elect to take outside of the faculty. The program produces graduates who are well versed in a wide range of critical issues. Through their study, students understand the contextual imperative of contemporary architectural exploration and production. With five departments in constant interaction, the Faculty of Architecture provides and excellent platform for discussing issues of sustainability and urban rehabilitation, the relevance of local and global contexts, and the importance of basic human emotions, needs and desires.

Manitoba Association of Architects

The Manitoba Association of Architects (MAA) is a self-governing professional association, mandated by the Province of Manitoba under The Architects Act to regulate the practice of architecture in the province.

University of Calgary

Since its establishment in 1971, the Architecture Program has developed a distinctive history based on its location in southern Alberta, the accomplishments of its graduates, and an ambitious group of educators. In addition to teaching, the faculty are involved in a diverse range of professional practice and research. The Program also draws on the expertise of the professional community as adjunct professors and sessional instructors. It benefits greatly from a healthy cooperative relationship with the Alberta Association of Architects. Supported by excellent facilities, the Architecture Program is able to maintain an intimate and supportive learning environment. The success of the Program can be measured by the accomplishments of its graduates in the profession, and in other related careers. The Architecture Program enjoys strong support within the interdisciplinary Faculty of Environmental Design and the University of Calgary, and has been widely recognized for the recent achievements of faculty, students and alumni. The Program offers a broad range of enrichment opportunities including the Barcelona Study Abroad program, the William Lyon Somerville Visiting Lectureship, the Gillmor Theory Seminar, lecture series, field trips, student exchanges, and exhibitions. The ability of our students to take full advantage of the many opportunities provided in the Program has been greatly enhanced by the wide range of scholarships, bursaries and awards available to students through the Faculty, the University of Calgary, and beyond.

Fee

Find your Course Calendar

To avoid exorbitant costs of translation and true copy certification, the CACB keeps on file Course Calendars/Syllabus translated to English or French from previous Assessments.

To find out if we have your Course Calendar/Syllabus for the years of the professional program you have attended in our date base click here and follow carefully the instructions.

If your School course calendar/syllabus is available for the years you studied, you will not be required to submit a certified copy of the calendar as part of your application, but be ready to provide with any additional information/clarifications if needed.

If your course calendars/syllabus does not appear on the drop down menu or does not apply to the same years of your architecture studies, you will be required to submit the official university calendar/syllabus as part of the documents package within your application.

University of Waterloo

The School of Architecture at Waterloo is a leader in design education and research. It offers a fully cooperative professional program, has been rated the greenest architecture curriculum in Canada and is the only Canadian school of architecture to have a permanent international facility, which has operated for 30 years in Rome, Italy. The school attracts top students from across Canada and around the world The School of Architecture at Waterloo is an outstanding nationally and internationally respected design school. It attracts top students and is dedicated to educating the best young architects in the world. The School is located in a splendid historic building – the former Riverside Silk Mill – located in the heart of the old Galt neighbourhood of Cambridge. Situated along the banks of the Grand River, the former industrial building provides wonderful spaces for design studios, labs, and classrooms. It also includes a superb design library, exhibition galleries, public auditorium, and cafe. As part of the historic downtown core of Galt, set within the larger City of Cambridge, the location is extremely attractive for a School of Architecture. The urban landscape in the surrounding community is one of the most beautiful in Ontario. There is a marvellous stock of heritage buildings nearby and the Grand River is a powerful presence, a designated Heritage River and the principal element in a diverse system of natural spaces within the City of Cambridge. Students are immersed in the urban setting by living in the community surrounding the School. Architecture students often find that the structured nature of residence doesn’t suit their schedule in the program and that they prefer the flexibility of living off campus. Students have access to recreational facilities in Cambridge as well as to services on the main UW campus. The Off-Campus Housing office at UW can provide a list of rental accommodations in Cambridge.

University of Toronto

The professional MArch is a 3-1/2-year program for individuals who have completed a 4-year bachelor’s degree (in any discipline – BA, BSc, BASc, BES, BFA, BCom, etc.) with a final year average of at least mid-B from the University of Toronto or its equivalent from a recognized university. Preference is given to individuals who have completed a balanced undergraduate education that includes study in the arts, sciences, and humanities, and who demonstrate leadership potential in the field. The following specific courses are required: secondary school calculus (OAC Calculus, or MCB4U Advanced Functions and Introductory Calculus, Grade 12, University Preparation, or equivalent); secondary school physics (OAC Physics, SPH4U Physics, Grade 12, University Preparation, or equivalent); university level half-credit course in architectural history. Preparation is recommended in the visual arts, such as drawing, sculpture, graphics, photography, film, or new media, as well as computing and advanced writing skills. The admissions committee may require specific prerequisite courses. Each applicant with a suitable undergraduate degree will be evaluated for the advanced standing option [see Admissions Requirements]. Admission is based upon the applicant’s overall academic background and the strength of the design portfolio. There is no language requirement for this program of study other than proficiency in English. Writing support is integrated into the program in order to develop specialized skills in writing which are essential to effective learning and communication in the design fields. The professional MArch is intended for those who do not already hold a professional degree in architecture. Individuals already holding a professional degree are encouraged to consider the post-professional Master of Architecture option or the Master of Urban Design program. Those wishing to verify the status in Canada of a professional architecture degree earned abroad should contact the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB): info@cacb.ca. If the CACB recognizes your degree as equivalent to a Canadian degree, you will not be eligible to apply for our professional MArch program. More information on admissions is available on our Graduate Admissions webpage.